As the January application deadline looms for primary school admissions, parents across Essex are making the critical decision of choosing the right school for their children. With a range of considerations, the process can seem overwhelming. Amanda Daines, Headteacher at Tyrrells Primary School in Chelmsford, shares her top tips for parents to make an informed decision and ensure their little ones get the best possible start to their education.
1.No question is a silly question
We understand that choosing a school for your child is a huge decision and that you need to as much information as possible to make a confidence choice. Whether you’re curious about the school’s approach to reading, how lunchtime is organised or where children hang their coats, every detail contributes to understanding how the school will suit your child’s needs. At Tyrrells Primary School, we ensure that our tours have lots of opportunities built in for parents to ask questions to our Year 6 children, our Deputy Headteacher and our Headteacher, so that you get a true sense of the school.
2.Think about your child’s seven-year journey through primary school
When choosing a school for your child, it is important that you have an understanding of what they will experience in their Reception class, as well as what their school experience will be like when they are older and ready to go onto secondary school. For example, during a Tyrrells tour, you will see the whole school in action and will have a tour with two of our Year 6 children who can tell you all about their learning experiences and where they are planning to go next.
3.Try to follow your own instincts
When choosing a school, you will be bombarded with information from multiple sources, including lots of other people’s opinions. However, it is really important that you visit all schools that you are interested in. You know your child better than anyone and need to try and visualise where you think suits them best. Trust your own instincts when making the final decision about the preferences that you select.
4.Look at each school’s admissions criteria carefully
Each school that you are considering for your child will have a slightly different set of admissions criteria. Make sure that you have a look at the criteria for each school so that you understand how applications will be ranked and the chance that your child has of being admitted to the school. At our tours, we have maps available of our priority admissions area and also give details about how often we have offered places outside of this area.
5.Don’t miss the deadline
It is crucial that you complete your online application for a school place here before 15 January 2025 to ensure that your choices are considered. Any applications received after this date are considered late and will only be dealt with once everyone else has been placed. Put your schools in order of your true preference and make sure that at least one school on your list is your catchment school or one where you know you are guaranteed a place. Good luck with your decision!
